CFB Greenwood pilot aborts takeoff after laser shone into cockpit

RCMP said a laser shone into the cockpit of a plane caused the pilot to abort takeoff at 14 Wing Greenwood May 13.

GREENWOOD, N.S. —

A Canadian Armed Forces pilot aborted takeoff when a laser was shone into the cockpit of the aircraft at 8:58 p.m. May 13.

RCMP said the CC-130 Hercules was on the taxiway when the laser incident occurred, and because of the incident, the flight was aborted. Witnesses reported the laser came from the area south of the base. RCMP patrolled the area but did not locate a suspect.

“Lasers present a serious risk to aviation. They can impair the pilots’ vision, therefore putting at risk the lives of all occupants and people on the ground,” said Lt.-Col B. Baker, deputy commander of 14 Wing Greenwood. “Incidents involving lasers pointed at airplanes cause the flight to be cancelled automatically for investigation and safety of the crews. In Greenwood where search and rescue flights operate routinely, this could also affect the safety of those in need of assistance.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Kingston RCMP at 902-765-3317. Should you wish to remain anonymous call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.